fiji travel insurance for covid

FijiCare launches Fiji’s first travel insurance plan and the VuvaleCare Microinsurance

People will now be able to purchase travel insurance through a Fijian insurance provider and FijiCare has launched their Comprehensive Travel Insurance product along with the VuvaleCare Microinsurance.

While speaking at the launch, FijiCare Executive Director Avi Raju says FijiCare Comprehensive Travel Insurance include COVID-19 coverage, accidental death and other travel-related benefits where both the visitors to Fiji and Fijians travelling are abroad eligible for the cover.

Raju says in about 8 weeks time people will be able to purchase this product through their Viber messaging app.

He says Fiji is one of the very few countries where people will be able to transact right from inception to payment on a messaging app.

Raju says VuvaleCare is an online platform through which people will be able to purchase Bundle Microinsurance while more products will be available soon.

The Executive Director says close to 100,000 people are covered by the Bundle Microinsurance product that covers for funeral assistance, term life, fire and dwelling and personal accident insurance.

He says this will be available fully online through vuvalecare.com.

The Executive Director says the Fijian diaspora, Fijians who go and work under worker scheme or just friends of Fijians who live offshore will be able to purchase this cover for their loved ones back in Fiji and thus promoting financial inclusion and greater insurance coverage for the most vulnerable.

He further says the claims environment has been very challenging post COVID and they saw a record payout of $33.8 million in claims in 2022.

FijiCare Chairman, Dumith Fernando says in the last five years from 2017 to 2022, FijiCare has written three times more premiums which is a larger exponential growth than any other insurance provider.

He says currently pay the largest amount of claims out which means they are protecting more people at a larger sum, which is a direct benefit to their customers.

Fernando says their solvency surplus is also up four times in that period which is more than any other insurance company.

He adds their share price has also increased more than four times.

Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Viliame Gavoka says in some cases, there will still be doubts on whether having insurance is a necessity.

He says it is because it can seem like a luxury purchase for most people who simply cannot afford to pay for something they do not directly use and that is the reality.

He says however, another reality is that risks although the same such as fires or injuries affect people disproportionately.

The Deputy Prime Minister says in Fiji, low income earners are the most vulnerable and the least protected.

He says this is where affordable and accessible insurance that caters for scale is critical.

Gavoka adds the rise in tourism travel is fueling the growth of the travel insurance market.

The Deputy Prime Minister says as the Minister responsible for Tourism, he hopes we get to see more microinsurance bundles covering not just resource based sectors but tourism too.

There is no disarray - 18% of students yet to redeem their bus cards 8 weeks into the term - Gavoka

Nursing association president doctor vudiniabola to appear on fijivillage straight talk with vijay narayan at 8pm wednesday, fccc urges people to be aware of advertisements claiming to offer free government-sponsored medical benefits, australian defence force chief commends fijian troops, 64% very concerned on the security of their personal and financial information when using digital financial services, cremation will help with overcrowded burial space - tikoduadua.

Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations

SODELPA Management Board instructs Gavoka to hand over Education portfolio to Radrodro

Bainimarama and qiliho's acquittal appeal, national program manager for fiji 7s, gareth baber appears on fijivillage straight talk with vijay narayan.

• Car Finance
• Hire Purchase
• Novated Leasing
• Bad Credit Car Loans
• Car Loan Refinance
• Business Car Loans
• Australian Car Statistics
• Car Loan Repayments Calculator
• Compare Car Loans
• Average Car Loan Interest Rates
• How Much Can I Borrow?
• How to Get a Car Loan?
• Caravan Loans
• Motorbike Loans
• Jet Ski Loans
• Camper Trailer Loans
• Loans for Harley-Davidson
• Boat Loan Calculator
• Caravan Buying Checklist
• How to Choose a Motorbike?
• Top Tips to Choose a Right Boat
• Equipment Finance
• Chattel Mortgage
• Truck Finance
• Aircraft Finance
• Technology Finance
• Agriculture Finance
• Plant & Machinery Finance
• Operating Lease
• Unsecured Personal Loans
• Low-interest Personal Loans
• Debt Consolidation Loans
• Travel Loans
• Wedding Loans
• Bad Credit Loans
• Compare Personal Loans
• Personal Loan Calculator
• Personal Loans Eligibility
• Unsecured Business Loans
• Small Business Loans
• Invoice Financing
• Business Overdrafts
• Cashflow Lending
• Small Business Start-up Loans
• Compare Business Loans
• Business Loan Interest Rates
• First Home Buyers
• Buy Next Home
• Investment Home Loans
• Home Loan Refinance
• Bad Credit Home Loans
• Self Employed
• Construction Home Loans
• Compare Home Loans
• How to Choose a Home Loan?
• Home Loan Repayments Calculator
• Borrowing Power Calculator
• Balance Transfer
• Frequent Flyer
• No Annual Fee
• Master Card vs Visa Card
• Maximise Credit Reward Points
• Perks of Using a Credit Card
• Manage Your Debt with a Balance Transfer Card
• Small Personal Loan
• Quick Cash Loan
• Rental Bond Loan
• Car Repair Loan
• Furniture Loan
• Emergency Loan
• Rent Arrears Loan
• Bank Accounts
• Savings Accounts
• Term Deposits
• Business Bank Accounts
• Debit Cards
• Kids Savings Accounts
• Margin Loans
• Travel Money Cards
• Best International Money Transfers
• Send Money to India
• Send Money to USA
• Send Money to New Zealand
• Send Money to UK
• Send Money to Canada
• Superannuation
• Compare Super Funds
• Cryptocurrency
• Share Trading
• Forex Trading
• CFD Trading
• Comprehensive Car Insurance
• Third Party Fire and Theft Car Insurance
• Third Party Property Damage Car Insurance
• CTP Insurance
• Classic Car Insurance
• Car Insurance for Young Drivers
• Seniors Car Insurance
• How Do I Compare Car Insurance?
• How Much is Car Insurance?
• Types of Car Insurance in Australia
• Market Value Vs Agreed Value
• Car Insurance with Choice of Repairer
• Landlord Insurance
• Building Insurance
• Flood Insurance
• Contents Insurance
• Best Home Insurance
• Cheapest Home Insurance
• Professional Indemnity Insurance
• Public Liability Insurance
• Product Liability Insurance
• Domestic Travel Insurance
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Single Trip Travel Insurance
• Seniors Travel Insurance
• Best Travel Insurance
• Cheap Travel Insurance
• Travel Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions
• What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

Why Do I Need Travel Insurance?

• Travel Insurance COVID-19
• Seniors Funeral Insurance
• Hospital Cover
• Extras Only Cover
• Singles Cover
• Couples Cover
• Family Health Insurance Cover
• Overseas Visitors Health Insurance Cover
• Health Insurance for Seniors
• Cheap Health Insurance
• Income Protection
• Personal Accident Insurance
• Trauma Insurance
• TPD Insurance
• Funeral Insurance
• Seniors Pet Insurance
• Cheap Pet Insurance
• Best Pet Insurance
• Electricity Plans
• Compare Electricity Plans
• Compare Gas Plans
• Solar Electricity Plans
• Green Energy Plans
• ADSL Broadband Plans
• Mobile Broadband
• Home Wireless Broadband Plans
• Internet Providers
• Best Broadband Deals
• Prepaid Plans
• iPhone Plans
• Unlimited Data Plans
• SIM-Only Plans
• Unlimited Data for Mobile Phones
• Travel Insurance for Mobile Phone
• Customer Reviews

Travel Insurance for Fiji

Travelling to Fiji for a much-needed holiday? Compare your travel insurance options with Savvy.

Fact checked

Compare Travel Insurance Quotes in 30 Seconds

• 100% free to use. No obligation.

Whether you’re just planning to lounge on the white sandy beaches or scuba dive in the crystal-clear waters, it’s always important to have peace of mind when you’re travelling to Fiji. If you’re searching for the right travel insurance cover for your next international journey, Savvy can point you in the right direction.

By comparing with us, you can find a policy which offers you the right protection, whether your flights are delayed, your luggage goes missing or you fall ill while overseas. We provide instant quotes from our partners, so you can consider their pros and cons and compare the cost of each policy. Before you take off overseas, compare your travel insurance options with Savvy today.

Do I need travel insurance for a holiday to Fiji?

You don’t necessarily ‘need’ travel insurance if you’re taking a trip to Fiji. However, it’s strongly recommended that you purchase a policy before you jet off on your holiday, whether you’re planning to stay by the resort pool or explore some of the 300 islands that make up the archipelago of Fiji.

Fiji may overwhelm your senses and provide exciting experiences on your next trip, but there are also certain perils to look out for. To obtain the best travel insurance, compare with Savvy.

If you’re eager to experience all of what Fiji has to offer, some of the incidentals to watch out for include:

• Natural disasters: cyclone season is November to April but can occur at any time. Floods might impair services, so preparing to evacuate your destination at any moment is essential, particularly if you’re in the Nadi and Coral Coast area, which is prone to flooding. During a storm, seek shelter and follow local instructions. It’s important to remember that often the roads in and out of airports will be flooded, leading to flight delays and cancellations .
• Fraud: card skimming can happen when you least expect it, so when using ATMs, guard your PIN. Also, check card and bank statements regularly for unauthorised use.
• Protests: marches, street gatherings and military action zones should be avoided, and it’s worth remembering that protests can very quickly turn violent. Officials will sometimes set up checkpoints and shut roadways, and it’s important to heed their advice.
• Petty and serious crimes: robbery, physical and sexual assault and home burglaries are all more common, opportunistic forms of crime in Fiji. The danger is greatest in cities and at night, so it’s important to be cautious in downtown Suva late at night.
• Diseases: Fiji’s Ministry of Health and Medical Services announced a leptospirosis epidemic in February 2022. When outdoors, avoid flooding rivers and streams and wear appropriate footwear. Keep an eye on the Ministry of Health and Medical Service. Typhoid, Zika and dengue fever are all prevalent in Fiji. Before you leave, make sure your vaccines are up to date. Take precautions against mosquito bites.
• Harsh drug laws: Do not use or transport illicit substances. Even having small quantities of narcotics could result in jail time.

What’s covered by my travel insurance for my holiday to Fiji?

Depending on the policy and level of protection, travel insurance can help if you become ill or injured while travelling, lose your things, or suffer airline cancellations or delays. Some travel insurance benefits are:  

• Overseas medical bills: it’s a good idea to take out travel insurance if you’re struck down with an illness or injure yourself and require medical attention while in Fiji. The island country has many insect-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria, which can be deadly.
• Evacuation or repatriation: there is a significant gap between the quality of medical treatment in Australia and that in Fiji and it is common for hospitals to run low on essential supplies. As such, you may need medical evacuation to Australia if you are in a critical condition due to illness or injury.
• Cancellation: many travel insurance carriers may refund pre-paid deposits on hotels, flights, or excursions if you cancel your trip due to a covered occurrence. Illness, injury, or a sick or dying family member are among the valid reasons for cancelling a trip.
• Lost, stolen or damaged bags: most insurance providers will compensate or replace lost, stolen, or damaged baggage up to an agreed claim amount, which can reach up to $15,000.
• Individual items: taking a phone or laptop on your overseas or domestic getaway? Many insurance plans offer sub-limits for lost, damaged, or stolen property. For example, some may allow you to claim up to $300 per day if your flight is delayed for more than 24 hours.
• Travel delays: most travel insurance cover hotel, food, and other expenses if your flight is delayed longer than 24 hours. This includes delayed luggage owing to a delayed airliner.
• Personal liability: legal issues abroad may be costly. If you're held directly accountable for damage or injury, your insurance company may pay up to $5 million.
• Accidental death: if you die overseas in a covered accident, your insurance company can repatriate your remains. They may pay up to $25,000 for funeral or cremation fees.
• Optional extras: going scuba diving in the South Pacific or white water rafting on the Navua river? Most travel insurance plans don't cover these activities automatically, but they do offer supplementary coverage for an added premium.

However, most travel insurance companies won’t cover you for the following incidentals:

• Unapproved pre-existing medical conditions
• Lost possessions left unattended
• Breaking local laws and road rules
• Accidents caused by drug or alcohol use
• Travelling to a country against Australian government advice
• Travelling for medical tourism

What factors should I consider before buying travel insurance for a trip to Fiji?

It might be difficult to figure out which policy provides the most beneficial coverage for your next trip to Oceania. However, by comparing with Savvy, you may be able to make the experience of searching for the perfect policy a whole lot easier.

Premium cost

It is, of course, in your best interest to keep your insurance premium costs to a minimum. To avoid overpaying for your travel insurance, it is crucial to shop around and get the best possible policy at a price that works for you. If you’re over 85 and planning a trip to Fiji, you’ll likely be paying a higher premium based on your age, so it will be worth shopping around to find the best seniors' travel insurance policy.

The type of policy you need

Numerous options exist for travel insurance, whether you're looking for single-trip, annual or one-way cover, so it’s important to consider your travel requirements. For example, if you’re travelling to Fiji but also taking a trip to the Philippines and other locales across the year, an annual policy may be more suited to you than single-trip. Take a look at your itinerary, think about how often you’ll be flying and compare it with Savvy so you can get the best insurance for your trip.

What you’re doing in Fiji

Carefully consider which insurance company provides the greatest value and level of protection if you’re looking to partake in high-risk pursuits before signing up. If you’re planning to jet ski off the Mamanuca Islands or skydive at 14,000 feet, make sure you get a policy that covers you.

Claim limits

In most cases, the amount you may claim from your overseas travel insurance policy will be capped. Check if these limits are enough for your trip and the items you want to take with you by doing a side-by-side comparison of several brands with Savvy.

Inclusions and exclusions

When searching for the best international policy for your trip to Fiji, make sure you opt for a policy that best suits your needs. Before settling on one choice, do your homework and weigh what's included and what isn't. For example, a pre-existing condition you suffer from may not be automatically included under one policy, while it could be covered by a competitor.

Types of travel insurance

International.

International travel insurance can offer cover for a range of events, including medical expenses, lost luggage or items, cancellation fees and more when you're overseas and a long way from home.

If you're journeying within Australia, domestic policies are designed to offer many of the same protections as international travel insurance (with the exception of medical expenses).

Single trip

The most standard and common type of travel insurance, this policy can cover you for one trip starting and ending in Australia (and is available for both international and domestic travel).

Annual multi-trip

As the name suggests, this type of travel insurance covers multiple trips over a 12-month period. Depending on your insurer, you may be able to take an unlimited number of trips up to 90 days each.

You don't have to have a return ticket booked to take out cover while you're overseas. One-way travel insurance enables you to access cover without a set end date, such as if you're moving temporarily.

You may need to take out specialist coverage if you're setting sail on a cruise. Fortunately, cruise insurance can cover emergency evacuation, cabin confinement and more.

Just because you're older doesn't mean travel insurance isn't still important. If you qualify for cover, seniors' travel insurance can offer greater peace of mind for included events while you're travelling.

Adding winter sports or ski cover to your policy can add protection against damage to your equipment, piste closure due to bad weather and activities such as back-country skiing, heliskiing and more.

Adventure sports

Looking to enjoy some adventure sports on holiday? An adventure sports pack can grant you cover for a range of activities, such as hiking, scuba diving and motorcycle or scooter riding.

Jetsetting with the whole clan in tow? Some insurers offer family travel insurance, which enables you to include yourself, your partner and your dependent children under one policy to help you save.

If you're travelling interstate or overseas with your partner (or simply another friend or family member), you may be able to access a discount by taking out a joint or duo travel insurance policy.

Why compare travel insurance with Savvy?

Reputable insurance partners, fast and convenient online process.

You can complete the quote, comparison and purchase process online through Savvy quickly and easily.

Competitive quote costs

Regardless of the type of insurance you’re looking for, we can help you compare between competitive quotes.

Top tips for saving on your travel insurance to Fiji

Combine policies.

You can get group policies from providers covering you and your partner , your extended family, and even your children or grandchildren. Most providers allow you to include up to 25 people under the same policies, which, if the costs are divided among the travellers, can save you money.

Consider increasing your excess

You can pay less for your travel insurance by increasing the excess you're willing to pay if you need to file a claim. A higher excess can help you save money in the long term, but it shouldn't be so high that it causes you financial hardship to pay it.

Only pay for what you need

There's no point paying for cover you're not going to use on your holiday. Before you purchase a policy, read the PDS and make sure you aren’t paying extra for add-ons such as rental car hire or cruise coverage if you don't have any intentions of either hiring a car or sailing across the seas.

Compare your travel insurance options

Using Savvy to help you decide lets you easily see which provider gives you the best coverage for the lowest price. You can compare policies side by side so you can weigh what's included, what's not included, the price of your premium, and any other essential factors.

Frequently asked questions about travel insurance for Fiji

Yes – most travel insurance policies cover any COVID-19-related expenses, such as medical treatment while you’re in Fiji and the need to cancel your holiday if you test positive before you leave. However, cancellation due to COVID-19 isn’t usually available on basic policies. The risk of testing positive for COVID-19 is still quite high if you’re travelling to Fiji as of September 2022, so it’s best to wear a mask when possible if you’re worried about contracting the disease.

Yes – you can buy travel insurance if you’re already wheels up and headed to Fiji for your holiday. You’ll be afforded the exact coverage you would usually get if you purchased before departure. However, these policies have waiting periods of between 48 and 96 hours. This means that if you suffer a claimable incident inside this period, you won’t be able to make a claim.

Most people in the know will tell you the best time to purchase your travel insurance is when you know your travel dates. That allows you to be covered for the maximum amount of pre-paid bookings, such as those for hotels or tours if something unforeseen happens and you need to call off your holiday. There are also often sales on around holiday periods, such as Easter, Christmas and the End of the Financial Year, which means you could snap up a policy at a discount. In most cases, you won’t be able to get instant cover, as most policies have waiting periods of at least 72 hours.

When you do it online, claiming on your travel insurance is a pretty easy process. When you go to your insurance company's website, enter your policy number and the email address that goes with it. From there, you can do the following:

• Fill out your claim form with plenty of detail
• Attach any documents, such as receipts, medical evidence, or proof of purchase
• Submit your claim

  The majority of the time, you should hear back from your insurance company within about ten business days. It's best to quickly answer any requests for more information to avoid slowing down the process.

The cost of your travel insurance to Fiji will be determined by a range of interchangeable variables, including:

• The length of your trip and destinations
• Whether you suffer any pre-existing conditions
• If you need optional extras
• The insurer you’ve chosen
• The level of cover you have purchased
• What part of Fiji (for example, you may not be able to receive cover if you’re travelling somewhere experiencing a natural disaster or an outbreak of infectious disease)

Helpful travel insurance guides

Travel Insurance Broker

Find out how a broker may be able to help you and compare travel insurance options with Savvy. Compare Travel...

What Do I Need for Travel Insurance?

Compare with Savvy and find out what you need to purchase travel insurance for your holiday. Compare Travel Insurance Quotes...

Best International Travel Insurance

Travelling abroad? Compare policies and find your international travel insurance here with Savvy. Compare Travel Insurance Quotes in 30 Seconds...

Asking yourself why you need travel insurance for your holiday? Compare with Savvy and understand the benefits. Compare Travel Insurance...

Optional Cover Travel Insurance

Explore the many optional extras travel insurance offers by comparing with Savvy. Compare Travel Insurance Quotes in 30 Seconds Get...

Travel Insurance for Heart Conditions

Looking for travel insurance that covers heart conditions? Compare with Savvy to help you get the cover you need today....

Benefits of Travel Insurance

Understand more about the benefits of travel insurance by comparing your options with Savvy. Compare Travel Insurance Quotes in 30...

What is a Travel Insurance Excess?

Find out what a travel insurance excess is and how you should compare them here. Compare Travel Insurance Quotes in...

Cheap Travel Insurance For Seniors

Compare travel insurance for seniors with Savvy to help you find the cheapest.  Compare Travel Insurance Quotes in 30 Seconds...

What is Travel Insurance?

Compare with Savvy and find out more about what travel insurance is today. Compare Travel Insurance Quotes in 30 Seconds...

Explore your travel insurance options for your next destination

Travel Insurance for Peru

Travel Insurance for Ireland

Travel Insurance for Nepal

Travel Insurance for Thailand

Travel Insurance for Saudi Arabia

Travel Insurance for Cambodia

Travel Insurance for Argentina

Travel Insurance for Singapore

Travel Insurance for the UK

Travel Insurance for Paris

Travel Insurance for Norfolk Island

Travel Insurance for Amsterdam

Travel Insurance for China

Travel Insurance for Jordan

Travel Insurance for Europe

Travel Insurance for New Zealand

Travel Insurance for South Africa

Travel Insurance for Namibia

Travel Insurance for Switzerland

Travel Insurance for Bangkok

Travel Insurance for Bangladesh

Travel Insurance for Tunisia

Travel Insurance for Hungary

Travel Insurance for Dublin

Travel Insurance for the Middle East

Travel Insurance for Turkey

Travel Insurance for Bulgaria

Travel Insurance for Phuket

Travel Insurance for Mexico

Disclaimer: We do not compare all travel insurance brands currently operating in the market. Any advice presented above or on other pages is general in nature and does not consider your personal or business objectives, needs or finances. It’s always important to consider whether advice is suitable for you before purchasing an insurance policy.

Savvy earns a commission from our partners each time a customer buys a travel insurance policy via our website. We don’t arrange for products to be purchased from these brands directly, as all purchases are conducted via their websites.

Before purchasing your policy, we recommend you refer to the provider’s PDS for any further information on the terms, inclusions and exclusions.

• Giving Back
• Partner with us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Credit Guide
• How We Handle Complaints
• Scam and Fraud Warning
• Comparison Rate Warning

1300 974 066

Sign up to our newsletter.

Quantum Savvy Pty Ltd (ABN 78 660 493 194) trades as Savvy and operates as an Authorised Credit Representative 541339 of Australian Credit Licence 414426 (AFAS Group Pty Ltd, ABN 12 134 138 686). We are one of Australia’s leading financial comparison sites and have been helping Australians make savvy decisions when it comes to their money for over a decade.

We’re partnered with lenders, insurers and other financial institutions who compensate us for business initiated through our website. We earn a commission each time a customer chooses or buys a product advertised on our site, which you can find out more about here , as well as in our credit guide for asset finance. It’s also crucial to read the terms and conditions, Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or credit guide of our partners before signing up for your chosen product. However, the compensation we receive doesn’t impact the content written and published on our website, as our writing team exercises full editorial independence.

For more information about us and how we conduct our business, you can read our privacy policy and terms of use .

© Copyright 2024 Quantum Savvy Pty Ltd T/as Savvy. All Rights Reserved.

Thanks for your enquiry!

Our consultant will get in touch with you shortly to discuss your finance options.

We'd love to chat, how can we help?

Quick Links

• Cancel Policy
• Make a claim

Travel insurance for Fiji

Coral beaches , lazy palms and vivid reefs under turquoise water; few places in the world do tropical perfection quite like Fiji. The country offers adrenaline-pumping activities  and serene relaxation in equal measure, making it a favourite for families, honeymooners and everyone in between.

However, travellers should remember that a tropical holiday can present several dangers, which is why travel insurance for Fiji is so important. Natural disasters like cyclones, adventure mishaps like scratches from a coral reef, and even food poisoning after a bad buffet meal can all threaten to turn your Fijian getaway into a holiday to forget.

Great travel insurance is essential to protect yourself on holiday, and understanding what you’re covered for in Fiji is the best way to avoid unexpected costs.

Get a travel insurance quote

Things to know about travel to Fiji and COVID-19

Thankfully, Fiji managed to keep COVID-19 cases relatively low throughout the pandemic due to firm restrictions including those on international travel. Fiji re-opened its borders to international visitors on December 1st, 2021, with a number of travel requirements:

Fiji COVID-19 travel requirements for Australians

For up-to-date information on Fiji’s current COVID-19 entry requirements, we recommend visiting the Fiji Travel website.

COVID-19 and travel insurance: What am I covered for?

Whether it’s a cancelled event, a delayed flight or any other changes to your itinerary, disruptions due to COVID-19 can be frustrating on holiday. So when it comes to travel insurance, does your policy include cover for COVID-19 ?

Here are some frequently asked questions about COVID-19 and travel insurance:

What should my travel insurance policy for fiji include.

A holiday to Fiji offers everything from heart-pumping adventure to resort relaxation. However, you plan to enjoy the country, a comprehensive travel insurance policy for Fiji is the best way to protect yourself and your family from the unexpected.

Tropical cyclones in Fiji

Fiji is vulnerable to tropical cyclones, which usually occur around once per year between November and May. However, in some years like those experiencing La Nina weather patterns, the chance of tropical cyclones can significantly increase.

Unfortunately, storms in Fiji are often severe, causing significant damage. Tropical cyclones also play havoc with airline schedules and even relatively minor storms can leave travellers stranded due to flight cancellations.

If you’re visiting Fiji during the summer months when cyclones are most likely to occur, it’s important that you carefully monitor weather forecasts when planning your trip.

Does my travel insurance cover natural disasters like tropical cyclones?

If your prepaid travel arrangements (such as flights, accommodation and excursions) need to be changed or cancelled because of an unexpected natural disaster in Fiji, and your insurance started before the event occurred, our International Comprehensive policy can offer cover if you need to cancel or change the dates of your prepaid travel plans.

If you are stuck overseas for more than 12 hours because your flight has been delayed or cancelled due to an unexpected event, our International Comprehensive policy can offer cover for any additional equivalent expense type, including scheduled transport and accommodation and living expenses incurred while you are waiting to return home.

If your insurance started after the natural disaster has occurred, you won’t be covered for any alteration costs incurred as a result of the natural disaster, such as cancelling or changing your original flight. However, our International Comprehensive policy can still offer cover for other unexpected events in accordance with your policy, such as having your personal belongings stolen or injuring yourself overseas.

Am I covered for medical emergencies and hospital bills in Fiji?

Our international travel policies offers unlimited cover for medical treatment and evacuation. Our emergency assistance team is also available 24/7. In Fiji the main centres and larger islands have medical centres and hospitals, however on more remote islands, healthcare facilities are often limited to the basic healthcare offered by resorts.

Does my insurance cover adventure sports in Fiji?

We understand that adventure activities are all part of an unforgettable holiday in Fiji, which is why our international travel policies offer cover for many adventure activities in Fiji.

Our policy doesn’t cover you for certain activities, like kitesurfing. For other activities like parasailing, you are only covered if you participate with a licensed operator. If you’re scuba diving in Fiji, it’s essential that you hold an open water diving certificate or are diving with a qualified instructor.  

Activities which are excluded under the policy can be found under General Exclusions in your  policy document .

Is there cover for lost, stolen and damaged valuables in Fiji?

While Fiji is a safe and welcoming destination for Aussie travellers, your travel insurance should protect your valuables from loss, theft and damage. Whether it’s a stolen phone or a GoPro lost on the reef, our International Comprehensive policy offers cover for your lost, stolen, or damaged personal items resulting from an unexpected event. 

Travel insurance for cancellations and delays in Fiji

We know that even the best-laid plans can change, which is why our International Comprehensive policy offers cover for changes to your journey before and after you leave. 

For example, if your trip to Fiji is cancelled or changed due to an illness before you depart Australia, your policy offers cover for cancellations fees and prepaid travel costs.

If the unexpected happens during your holiday in Fiji, your policy offers cover for transport, accommodation, meals, activities and tour costs if you cannot reach your next destination on time, or if you need to cut your trip short and return to Australia.

Travel insurance that offers quality cover for cancellations and delays, including cover for COVID-19 , has never been more important.

How to avoid getting sick in Fiji

Like any destination, there’s always a chance you might fall ill with food poising in Fiji. If you’re eating from the resort buffet, you should use your best judgement to avoid contaminated food. To avoid food poisoning, remember to:

• Eat fresh and well-cooked food
• Avoid hot meals that have gone cold, and cold meals that have gone warm
• Ensure you use clean and dry serving utensils
• Avoid buffets without screen guards protecting the food from other guests.
• Stick to bottled or boiled water

Fiji travel insurance exclusions

While comprehensive travel insurance is essential to keeping you and your family safe in Fiji, it is unlikely that you’ll find a policy that covers you for everything. So what won’t your Fiji travel insurance cover you for?

Pre-existing medical conditions (PECs)

Pre-existing medical conditions (PECs) aren’t automatically covered under travel insurance, however, they can be added as extras when buying your policy.

At SCTI, we have a list of PECs that you must declare when organising your travel insurance, and a few definitions that you should be aware of if you’re travelling with health conditions. Find out what you need to do to seek cover for your PECs.

If you’d like some advice on how your pre-existing medical conditions might affect your Fiji travel insurance, please don’t hesitate to email us at any time or connect with one of our insurance experts on 1800 196 484 .

Other Fiji travel insurance exclusions

Pre-existing medical conditions aren’t the only thing that may not be covered under your Fiji travel insurance. You won’t be covered if:

• You’re participating in adventure activities with an unlicensed tour operator, such as diving, parasailing and white-water rafting.
• You’re riding a moped or motorbike and you haven’t added this as an extra on your travel insurance policy.
• You’re sailing more than 22.2 kilometres (12 nautical miles) from populated land.
• A natural event occurred before the start date of your insurance and causes disruptions to your travel plans.

We're with Aussies in Fiji

We love hearing positive feedback from our happy travellers and we’re humbled to have helped thousands of Aussies enjoy their Fijian adventure to the fullest. Here are just a few customer stories shared on Product Review : 

Fiji travel insurance FAQs

Do i need travel insurance to enter fiji.

Yes, it’s mandatory for Australians to have travel insurance that includes cover for COVID-19 to enter Fiji.

Is it safe to travel in Fiji?

Fiji has a reputation as a safe and welcoming country for travellers. However, Australians should take the regular precautions with their valuables in more crowded areas like markets, and also take care when participating in adventure activities. Stay up to date with current travel advice on the Smart Traveller website .

How much does travel insurance for Fiji cost?

The price of your Fiji travel insurance will depend on several factors, including:

• How many people are on the policy
• How long you’re travelling for
• Whether you’re visiting other countries as well as Fiji
• Whether you have any pre-existing medical conditions
• Whether you have any high-value items to add to your policy
• Whether you add cover for moped or motorbike riding.

Get a quick online travel insurance quote

What’s the best travel insurance for Fiji?

Fiji is regarded as a safe destination for all kinds of travellers, including solo adventurers, families and everyone in between. However, it’s important to get a travel insurance policy that will keep you and your belongings safe. 

The best travel insurance for Fiji should provide comprehensive protection for things like:

• Medical emergencies
• Lost, stolen and damaged valuables
• Natural disasters
• Cancellations and changes to your trip
• Rental vehicle excess.

Does travel insurance cover cyclones in Fiji?

Your travel insurance should include cover for natural disasters including cyclones, which often impact Fiji and surrounding Pacific nations. Our International Comprehensive policy offers cover for cancellations and changes to your journey due to natural disasters that occur after your start date of insurance.

What you need to know

This page includes some information about our products but, as with all insurance policies, terms and conditions apply. For our terms and conditions (including information about exclusions, excesses and sub limits) we recommend you read the relevant Financial Services Guide (FSG), Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and  Target Market Determination (TMD)  to ensure our travel insurance products are right for you.  

You can find the relevant documents here:  International Comprehensive , Annual Multi-trip ,  International Medical Only , Working Overseas ,  Domestic . 

We're here to help

We know how important it is to be able to talk to someone when you need help, that’s why we are available via email, phone and live chat Monday to Friday, 8.30am – 5pm, and Saturday, 7am to 4pm (AEST), excluding public holidays. And if you find yourself in a medical emergency our Emergency Assistance team are available 24/7 to help, wherever you are in the world.

Got a question? We have lots of quick answers here.

Get in touch with the team and we'll be happy to help.

Call us Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.00pm (AEDT).

Related articles

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

Best COVID-19 Travel Insurance in April 2024

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Table of Contents

Factors we considered when picking travel insurance that covers COVID

An overview of the best travel insurance for covid , top travel insurance for covid options , additional resources for covid-19 travel insurance shoppers.

No matter how well you prepare, travel plans don’t always go as expected. Some travelers buy travel insurance to protect their investment in prepaid travel costs. Amid the ongoing pandemic, exploring travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage is recommended. With the right policy, you can protect yourself if you need to cancel your trip or end it early due to illness. Many insurers offer travel insurance policies with this kind of coverage. 

This is the shortlist of the best travel insurance for COVID options: 

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection . 

John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc.  

Seven Corners . 

Travelex Insurance Services . 

Travel Insured International . 

WorldTrips . 

We used the following factors to choose insurance providers to highlight in our best travel insurance for COVID list: 

Range of coverage: We looked at how many plans each company offered with COVID-19 coverage, plus the range of available plans. 

Depth of coverage: We compared the maximum caps for trip cancellation and trip interruption claims between carriers and plans.

Medical benefits: We examined whether plans included emergency medical benefits for COVID-19 reasons and whether plans included medical evacuation and repatriation benefits. 

Cost: We determined an average cost for shoppers to benchmark plan prices by looking at the basic coverage costs for plans with COVID-19 benefits across multiple companies.

We looked at quotes from various companies for a six-night trip in May 2023 to Croatia. The traveler was 30 years old, from Texas and planned to spend $1,500 on the trip, including airfare.

On average, the price of each company’s most basic coverage plan with COVID-19 coverage was $47.22. The prices listed below are for the most basic COVID-19 travel insurance coverage. All insurers offer multiple COVID-19 policies with greater coverage coming at a higher cost. 

Let's take a closer look at our eight recommendations for travel insurance with COVID coverage: 

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

What makes Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection great:

Several plans allow policyholders to cancel for COVID-19 sickness as part of trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance benefits. 

Several plans include COVID-19 medical coverage benefits.

Medical evacuation benefits are included in these plans. 

Plans include limited sports and activities coverage and sports equipment loss benefits. 

Basic Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection will run you $50 for an ExactCare Value policy, the company’s most basic COVID-19 travel insurance coverage option.

What makes IMG great:

Many plans include COVID-19 cancellation benefits.

Most of these plans also include COVID-19 medical benefits (the Travel Essentials plan doesn’t include this). 

Medical evacuation coverage is available on select plans. 

Coverage for adventure travel is available for an extra cost. 

IMG is a good option for the budget-minded: Its Travel Essential plans cost more than $10 less than average based on our comparison. 

John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc. 

What makes John Hancock Insurance Agency great:

Multiple plans offer COVID-19 cancellation benefits as part of the included trip interruption and trip cancellation coverage. 

These plans offer COVID-19 medical benefits.

Medical evacuation coverage is included in all COVID-19 coverage plans. 

The John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc. basic plan (Bronze) costs $56. 

Seven Corners

What makes Seven Corners great:

Multiple plans offer COVID-19 cancellation benefits as part of the included trip interruption and trip cancelation coverage. 

These plans include COVID-19 medical benefits and evacuation and repatriation benefits.

There is no medical deductible. 

Seven Corners’ basic coverage plan (RoundTrip Basic) for our trip to Croatia costs $44.

Travelex Insurance Services

What makes Travelex Insurance Services great:

Multiple plans include Covid-19 sickness coverage, which reimburses prepaid and nonrefundable trip payments if a trip is canceled or interrupted due to a traveler contracting the virus.

These plans also include COVID-19 medical benefits.

Medical evacuation and repatriation benefits are included. 

Basic coverage (Travel Basic) from Travelex Insurance Services costs $44 for our sample trip, which is slightly cheaper than average. 

Travel Insured International

What makes Travel Insured International great:

Multiple plans cover COVID-19 cancellation benefits as part of the included trip interruption and trip cancelation coverage. 

These plans also include COVID-19 medical benefits, including medical evacuation. 

Limited sports and activities coverage is included in plans with COVID-19 coverage. 

Travel Insured International's basic coverage (Worldwide Trip Protector Edge) begins at $55 — only a few dollars more than the average basic policy price. 

What makes Tin Leg great:

A wide range of plans offer COVID-19 cancellation benefits as part of the included trip interruption and trip cancelation coverage. 

All of these plans also include COVID-19 medical benefits. 

All of these include medical evacuation benefits. 

An adventure travel policy is available. 

Another plus: Tin Leg’s basic coverage plan (Basic) for our trip to Croatia costs $48.85 — making it right around the average price for the policies we covered. 

WorldTrips 

What makes WorldTrips great:

Several plans include medical coverage for COVID-19. 

Sports and activities and sports equipment loss are included. 

Coverage can be extended for up to thirty days, including for medical quarantine purposes. 

WorldTrips’ most affordable plan with COVID-19 coverage (Atlas Journey Economy) starts at $44, making it a low-cost option. 

Do you want to learn more about travel insurance before you spend money on a policy? Take a look at these resources: 

What is travel insurance?  

What does travel insurance cover? 

The best travel insurance companies 

How to find the right travel insurance for you

10 credit cards that provide travel insurance

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Advertisement

Supported by

Omicron and Travel: So, Now Do I Need Trip Insurance?

In light of the new variant, is extra protection warranted for things like flight and lodging cancellations and quarantine hotels? It depends. Here’s what you need to know.

• Share full article

By Elaine Glusac

While the pandemic has depressed travel, it may have encouraged travel insurance, say those in the industry.

“The biggest question we get from customers is: ‘What happens if I get Covid during travel and what if I have to quarantine?’” said Jeremy Murchland, the president of Seven Corners , a travel insurance management company. “Covid has created a much broader awareness of travel insurance.”

But will it help you in light of the new Omicron variant, which has already led to new travel restrictions and requirements? In the early days of the pandemic, travel insurance largely failed to protect travelers who wanted or needed to cancel as the world shut down. The following are answers to common questions about travel insurance now.

Does travel insurance cover Covid-19, including the new Omicron variant?

For the most part, yes, travel insurance policies now treat Covid-19 in all its variants — including Omicron — like any other medical emergency.

“Consumers should know that most travel insurance plans with medical benefits now treat Covid like any other illness that you could contract while traveling or that could prohibit you from going on your trip,” said Carol Mueller, a vice president of Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection . “If you become ill before your trip, you’ll need a doctor’s note confirming your illness and that you are unable to travel in order to be eligible for benefits. The benefits are the same regardless of whether you contract Omicron, another variant of Covid or any illness for that matter.”

Buyers should read the policies carefully and look out for those that exclude pandemics, Covid-19 and its variants. To make a claim, you must have had travel insurance before becoming ill.

“We always say, you can’t buy auto insurance after you’ve already had an accident,” said Meghan Walch, the product manager of InsureMyTrip , an insurance sales site. “It is designed for unforeseen issues. You have to purchase it before an event.”

I am traveling internationally. If borders close because of Omicron, am I covered through travel insurance?

No, most policies do not cover you if your foreign destination closes its borders to visitors, as Israel did recently. With a few exceptions, that also goes for a government-issued travel warning to a destination, which is generally not a covered reason to make a claim.

Given the added uncertainties of Omicron, should I consider a ‘Cancel for Any Reason’ policy?

Cancel for Any Reason, or C.F.A.R., provisions would allow you to claim some of your nonrefundable costs if you decide not to go on a trip for any reason, including border closures or fear of contracting Covid. The rub is that this form of insurance — in addition to being more expensive — must generally be purchased within a few weeks of booking the trip and will only return 50 to 75 percent of nonrefundable trip costs.

“Most travel insurance policies do not cover you for wanting to cancel out of fear of Covid. We say this 10 times a week,” said Sarah Groen, the owner of the agency Bell and Bly Travel . She counsels clients to consider their worst fears — illness, for example, or quarantine — in troubleshooting travel insurance. “We’ve become like therapists,” she said.

What about quarantine and medical expenses?

Make sure the policy you choose covers these. In the case of medical coverage, check with your regular health insurer; many policies will not cover you abroad, which is an additional reason to consider coverage if you are traveling internationally.

“What travel insurance can do is cover additional hotel stays if you are able to self-quarantine and additional airfare when you’re able to come home,” said Megan Moncrief, the chief marketing officer for Squaremouth , a travel insurance sales site. She added that most policies will extend to seven days past your originally scheduled return date, effectively covering only about seven days in case of quarantine.

Do some destinations require travel insurance?

Yes, primarily to cover medical care or quarantine accommodations in the event that a traveler tests positive for Covid-19. For example, Singapore requires medical insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000 Singapore dollars, or about $22,000. Fiji requires travel insurance to cover potential treatment for Covid-19, and makes it available from about $30. Some destinations, such as Anguilla , recommend rather than require travel insurance. InsureMyTrip.com has a page devoted to countries that require travel insurance.

It bears thinking about what it would take to get home for treatment should you contract Covid-19 abroad. Thailand, for example, requires travelers to have medical insurance with the minimum coverage of $50,000. “Evacuation out of Thailand would be higher,” said Sasha Gainullin, the chief executive of Battleface , a travel insurance start-up that unbundles benefits. In the case of a Thailand trip, he advised taking medical coverage up to $100,000 for treatment locally and $500,000 for medical evacuation and repatriation.

Do I need insurance if I have bookings with flexible cancellation policies?

Probably not, if you have hotel reservations that allow free cancellation 24 to 48 hours in advance. The same with flights; if your flight is changeable and will provide a voucher or refund in case of cancellation, you’re covered.

I have rented a house with restrictive cancellation penalties. Can I insure against those?

Yes. Vacation home rentals from Airbnb and the like can be treated just like other accommodations that do not offer refunds. In this case, you would want to get a policy in the amount you would forfeit if you had to cancel for a covered reason like illness. Again, fear of travel is not a covered reason; for that, you would need C.F.A.R.

Elaine Glusac is the Frugal Traveler columnist. Follow her on Instagram: @eglusac .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation.

An earlier version of this article misstated the timeframe within which it is recommended that Cancel for Any Reason travel insurance be purchased. It is generally within about two to three weeks of booking the trip, not one or two days.

How we handle corrections

Frequently Asked Questions

Want help to plan your perfect surf holiday.

Top Travel Insurances for Fiji You Should Know in 2024

Byron Mühlberg

Monito's Managing Editor, Byron has spent several years writing extensively about financial- and migration-related topics.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

Fiji is an often-overlooked tropical paradise with crystal-clear Pacific waters, stunning beaches, and a unique Melanesian culture. Although travelling to Fiji can be an accessible holiday destination for many people, and although healthcare costs in the country aren't outrageously expensive, it's still a very good idea to arrive there with travel insurance anway, as you'll want the highest-quality healthcare you can find.

Luckily, online global insurances (known as 'insurtechs') specialize in cost-savvy travel insurance to Fiji and other countries worldwide. Our list below explores the four services we believe provide the best deals for young travellers, adventurers, everyday holidaymakers looking for comprehensive but affordable coverage, and longer-term expats.

Fiji Insurance Profile

Here are a few of the many factors influencing the scope and cost of travel insurances for Fiji:

Best Travel Insurances for Fiji

• 01. Should I get travel insurance for Fiji? scroll down
• 02. Best medical coverage: VisitorsCoverage scroll down
• 03. Best trip insurance: Insured Nomads scroll down
• 04. Best mix for youth and digitial nomads: SafetyWing scroll down
• 05. FAQ about travel insurance to Fiji scroll down

Heading to Fiji soon? Don't forget to check the following list before you travel:

• 💳 Eager to dodge high FX fees? See our picks for the best travel cards in 2024.
• 🛂 Need a visa? Let iVisa take care of it for you.
• ✈ Looking for flights? Compare on Skyscanner !
• 💬 Want to learn the local language? Babbel and italki are two excellent apps to think about.
• 💻 Want a VPN? ExpressVPN is the market leader for anonymous and secure browsing.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for Fiji?

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for travel to Fiji. This means that as a traveller to Fiji, you must provide valid travel insurance coverage for the entire duration of your stay. If you don't arrive with travel insurance, you risk being denied entry into Fiji, or even deported in certain cases.

However, regardless of whether or not it's legally required, it's always a good idea to take our health insurance before you travel — whether to Fiji or anywhere else. For what's usually an affordable cost , taking out travel insurance will mitigate most or all of the risk of financial damage if you run into any unexpected troubles during your trip abroad. Take a look at the top five reasons to get travel insurance to learn more.

With that said, here are the top three travel insurances for Fiji:

VisitorsCoverage: Best Medical Coverage

Among the internet's best-known insurance platforms,  VisitorsCoverage  is a pioneering Silicon Valley insurtech company that offers comprehensive medical coverage for travellers going abroad to Fiji. It lets you choose between various plans tailored to meet the specific needs of your trip to Fiji, including coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and travel disruptions. With its easy online purchase process and 24/7 live chat support, VisitorsCoverage is a reliable and convenient option if you want good value and peace of mind while travelling abroad.

• Coverage 9.0
• Quality of Service 9.0
• Pricing 7.6
• Credibility 9.5

VisitorsCoverage offers a large variety of policies and depending on your needs and preferences, you'll need to compare and explore their full catalogue of plans for yourself. However, we've chosen a few highlights for their travel insurance for Fiji:

• Policy names: Varies
• Medical coverage: Very good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, mental health-related conditions, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Excellent - but only available for US residents.
• Customer support: FAQ, live chat and phone support
• Pricing range: USD 25 to USD 150 /traveller /month
• Insurance underwriter: Lloyd's, Petersen, and others
• Best for: Value for money and overall medical coverage

Insured Nomads: Best Trip Coverage

Insured Nomads is another very good travel insurance option, especially if you're adventurous or frequently on the go and are looking for solid trip insurance with some coverage for medical incidents too. With Insured Nomads, you can choose the level of protection that best suits your needs and enjoy a wide range of benefits, including 24/7 assistance, coverage for risky activities and adventure sports, and the ability to add or remove coverage as needed. In addition, Insured Nomads has a reputation for providing fast and efficient claims service, making it an excellent choice if you want peace of mind while exploring the world.

• Coverage 7.8
• Quality of Service 8.5
• Pricing 7.4
• Credibility 8.8

Insured Nomads offers three travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences. We go through them below:

• Policy names: World Explorer, World Explorer Multi, World Explorer Guardian
• Medical coverage: Good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Good. Includes coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, lost or stolen luggage (with limits), adventure and sports activities, and many others.
• Customer support: FAQ, live chat, phone support
• Pricing range: USD 80 to USD 420 /traveller /month
• Insurance underwriter: David Shield Insurance Company Ltd.
• Best for: Adventure seekers wanting comprehensive trip insurance

SafetyWing: Best Combination For Youth

SafetyWing is a good insurance option for younger travellers or digital nomads because it offers flexible but comprehensive coverage at a famously affordable price. With SafetyWing, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you're covered for unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. In addition, SafetyWing's user-friendly website lets you manage your policy, file a claim, and access 24/7 assistance from anywhere in the world, and, unlike VisitorsCoverage, you can even purchase a policy retroactively (e.g. during a holiday)!

• Coverage 7.0
• Quality of Service 8.0
• Pricing 6.3
• Credibility 7.3

SafetyWing offers two travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences, which we've highlighted below:

• Policy names: Nomad Insurance, Remote Health
• Medical coverage: Decent. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Decent. Includes attractive coverage for lost or stolen belongings, adventure and sports activities, transport cancellation, and many others.
• Pricing range: USD 45 to USD 160 /traveller /month
• Insurance underwriter: Tokyo Marine HCC
• Best for: Digital nomads, youth, long-term travellers

How Do They Compare?

Interested to see how VisitorsCoverage, SafetyWing, and Insured Nomads compare as travel insurances to Fiji? Take a look at the side-by-side chart below:

Data correct as of 4/1/2024

FAQ About Travel Insurance to Fiji

Travel insurance typically covers trip cancellation, trip interruption, lost or stolen luggage, travel delay, and emergency evacuation. Some travel insurance packages also cover medical-related incidents too. However, remember that the exact coverage depends on the insurance policy.

Yes, medical travel insurance is almost always worth it, and we recommend taking out travel insurance whenever visiting a foreign country. Taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself in case you need medical attention during your stay. In general, we recommend VisitorsCoverage to travellers worldwide because it offers excellent value for money and well-rounded travel and medical benefits in its large catalogue of plans.

Health insurance doesn't cover normal holiday expenses, such as coverage for missed flights and hotels, but in case you run into medical trouble while abroad, it may cover some or all of your doctor or hospital expenses while overseas. However, not all health insurance providers and plans offer coverage to customers while abroad, and that's why it's generally best to take out travel insurance whenever you travel.

Although there's overlap, health and travel insurance are not exactly the same. Health insurance covers some or all of the cost of medical expenses (e.g. emergency treatment, doctor's visits, etc.) while travel insurance covers non-medical costs that are commonly associated with travelling (e.g. coverage for missed flights, stolen or lost personal belongings, etc.).

The cost of travel insurance depends on several factors, such as the length of the trip, the destination, the age of the traveller, and the level of coverage desired. On average, travel insurance can cost anywhere between 3% and 10% of the total cost of the trip.

A single-trip travel insurance policy covers a specific trip, while an annual one covers multiple trips taken within a one-year period. An annual policy may be more cost-effective for frequent travellers.

Yes, you can sometimes purchase travel insurance after starting your trip, but it is best to buy it before the trip begins to ensure maximum coverage. If you do need to buy insurance after you've started your trip, we recommend VisitorsCoverage , which offers a wide catalogue of online trip and medical insurance policies, most of which can be booked with immediate effect. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

Yes, you can most certainly purchase travel insurance for a trip that has already been booked, although we recommend purchasing insurance as soon as possible aftwerwards to ensure all coverage is in place before your journey begins. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

See Our Other Travel Insurance Guides

Looking for Travel Insurance to Another Country?

See our recommendations for travel insurance to other countries worldwide:

Why Trust Monito?

You’re probably all too familiar with the often outrageous cost of sending money abroad. After facing this frustration themselves back in 2013, co-founders François, Laurent, and Pascal launched a real-time comparison engine to compare the best money transfer services across the globe. Today, Monito’s award-winning comparisons, reviews, and guides are trusted by around 8 million people each year and our recommendations are backed by millions of pricing data points and dozens of expert tests — all allowing you to make the savviest decisions with confidence.

Monito is trusted by 15+ million users across the globe.

Monito's experts spend hours researching and testing services so that you don't have to.

Our recommendations are always unbiased and independent.

• Fiji Tourism
• Fiji Hotels
• Fiji Bed and Breakfast
• Fiji Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Fiji
• Fiji Restaurants
• Things to Do in Fiji
• Fiji Travel Forum
• Fiji Photos
• All Fiji Hotels
• Fiji Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Fiji
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Fiji Travel Insurance Covid Cover Requirement - Fiji Forum

• South Pacific    
• Fiji    

Fiji Travel Insurance Covid Cover Requirement

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• South Pacific forums

11 replies to this topic

Is it possible to get the 12 yr old vaccinated before you go otherwise you may need to look at the FijiCare insurance cover again.

https://www.fijivisitorsinsurance.com/

Not sure of Cover Mores policy re 12yr olds but you could ask too.

Unfortunately we leave in 2 weeks, so no. But the lady below has sent me some great info, so I will check that out tomorrow.

Tripadvisor staff removed this post at the original author's request.

Hi Anyastasia

I’m going to recommend keeping your money in your pocket for now, and checking the rules again just before you travel. A lot of things can change between now and then!

It’s pre-boarding not post arrival that you would be checked, if it at all. As noted if not travelling for a while yet policies may change prior.

• 2 week itinerary/accommodation help, first time in Fiji 9:11 am
• Wedding venues - mid range cost 4:14 am
• Help choose hotel and tours 11:24 pm
• Layover 11:24 pm
• Taxi from airport to port denarau 11:20 pm
• Yasawa flyer resort transfer prices 11:18 pm
• Trip Report - April 2024 yesterday
• Arts village Apr 19, 2024
• Fiji ATM Fees Apr 18, 2024
• Mantarays Apr 16, 2024
• Crocodiles? Apr 16, 2024
• Adult only. All inclusive Apr 16, 2024
• Transport to Coral Coast Apr 16, 2024
• 35 hour layover in Fiji (NAN) Apr 15, 2024
• best place to stay 14 replies
• Advice on best places to stay in Fiji 7 replies
• Fiji vs. Tahiti 14 replies
• Fiji vs. Bora Bora 7 replies
• Best Snorkeling in Fiji? 14 replies
• weather in august 4 replies
• June/July weather? 2 replies
• Being Nude in Fiji? 12 replies
• Poseidon Underwater Resort 3 replies
• How long is the flight from LAX to Nadi? 4 replies

Fiji Hotels and Places to Stay

• What not to bring to Fiji
• Supermarkets around Nadi area including Denarau Marina
• What are transportation costs to/from and around Denarau?
• Which Island? - Mainland Viti Levu
• What to bring to Fiji
• What to do on the Coral Coast
• Hiring of cars(rental or otherwise)
• Local Bus Services
• Meal Deals or Pay Per Meal?
• Credit Cards Fees
• 2 Bedroom Resort Accommodation
• Trip Reports
• Questions re food that can be taken into Fiji

Search Smartraveller

Latest update

Exercise normal safety precautions in Fiji. 

Fiji (PDF 691.96 KB)

Pacific (PDF 1.22 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services

Medical emergencies

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your travel insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Advice levels

Exercise normal safety precautions  in Fiji.

• Crime in Fiji includes robbery, theft, violent assault, sexual assault and home invasions. Most crime is opportunistic. The highest risk is in urban areas and at night. Be careful in downtown Suva after dark.
• Credit card fraud and ATM card skimming occur. Protect your PIN and be alert when using ATMs. Regularly check your card and bank statements for fraud.
• Avoid protests, street rallies and areas with military activity. Protests can occur with little warning and can turn violent. Local authorities sometimes set up checkpoints and close roads. Follow their advice and monitor media for updates.
• November to April is cyclone season, but cyclones may occur at other times. They can cause flooding and disrupt essential services. Know your accommodation’s evacuation plan. If a cyclone is approaching, find your nearest shelter and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Flooding is common, especially in downtown Nadi and on the Coral Coast. Floods can cut off road access, including to the airport. Follow the advice of local authorities.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Fiji has only one hyperbaric (decompression) chamber located in Suva. If you're diving, stay well within safety limits.

There are a high number of Leptospirosis cases nationwide. Stay away from flooded rivers or creeks, and wear footwear when outside. Monitor the Ministry of Health and Medical Services  website  and  Facebook page  for information and updates.

• Cases of Typhoid, Zika and Dengue are current throughout Fiji. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you go. Protect yourself against mosquito bites.
• Medical care standards in Fiji aren't as high as in Australia. Medical facilities often lack services, equipment and drugs. You may have to pay up-front. If you're seriously ill or injured, you’ll need medical evacuation to Australia.

Full travel advice: Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties include prison sentences, even for possessing small amounts of drugs.
• Fiji recognises dual nationality. Always travel on your Australian passport. If you're a dual national and you're arrested or detained, ask to contact the Australian High Commission.
• Outside of tourist areas, Fiji's dress standards are conservative. Take care not to offend.
• Same-sex relationships are legal, but some locals don't accept them. Consider limiting public displays of affection, especially in rural areas.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• If you're travelling from  certain countries , including Australia, you don't need a tourist visa for Fiji. 
• Before travelling to Fiji, check Fiji Immigration's  Entering Fiji page . 
• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest high commission/embassy or consulate of Fiji for the latest details.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian High Commission in Suva .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Crime that occurs in Fiji includes:

• violent assault, including sexual assault
• home invasions

Most crime is opportunistic.

You're most at risk in urban areas and at night. Expats and tourists have been victims.

Be careful in downtown Suva at night. Be aware of your surroundings.

Credit card fraud and use of skimming devices occurs.

To reduce your risk of becoming a victim:

• protect your PIN and be alert when using ATMs
• check through your credit card and bank statements for fraud
• don't carry excess cash
• keep car windows up and doors locked, even when moving

More information:

• Partying safely

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and protests.

Avoid any protests, demonstrations, rallies, public gatherings and areas with military activity.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Follow the instructions of local authorities and monitor the media for updates.

Local authorities sometimes erect checkpoints and close roads. Follow their advice.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Climate and natural disasters

Severe weather.

Fiji experiences natural disasters and severe weather , including:

• flooding and landslides
• earthquakes and tsunamis

Severe weather may affect regional sea ports.

In the event of severe weather or a natural disaster:

• always carry your passport in a waterproof bag
• keep in touch with family and friends
• check the media and other local sources for information
• follow the advice of local authorities
• know and follow your hotel or cruise ship evacuation plan

For details of weather conditions, including cyclones, check Fiji Meteorological Service .

• Fiji National Disaster Management Office
• World Meteorological Organisation Severe Weather Information Centre
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

November to April is cyclone season, but cyclones may occur at other times.

A tropical cyclone's direction and strength can change quickly.

During and after a cyclone:

• adequate shelter may not be available
• flights from and to affected areas can be delayed or suspended
• available flights may fill quickly

If a cyclone is approaching, find your local shelter. In some areas, it may be hard to find sturdy cover. Follow the advice of local authorities.

For cyclone updates, check:

• Fiji Meteorological Service
• Fiji Government homepage
• Fiji Government Facebook page

Flooding is common in Fiji, especially in downtown Nadi and on the Coral Coast.

Flooding and landslides can disrupt infrastructure and essential services.

Floods can cut off road access, including access to the airport.

Monitor road closures on the Fiji Roads Authority Facebook page .

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Earthquakes and tsunamis can occur in Fiji.

Be alert to warnings. A tsunami can happen within minutes of a nearby tremor or earthquake.

If authorities issue a tsunami warning (by siren and/or news announcements), check with your accommodation provider about evacuation plans.

Move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings. Once on high ground, monitor local media and follow local authorities' advice.

• Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre
• Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Cruise ship evacuations

In recent years, a number of Australians have had to evacuate from cruise ships to Lautoka and Suva for medical care.

Often, this is due to pre-existing medical conditions.

Declare any pre-existing conditions to your insurer.

Remember to extend your insurance if you extend your trip.

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of someone you know, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Fiji. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Always carry your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use only

Authorities may arrest you or confiscate restricted medication if you don't have the right documents.

Health risks

Current health risks.

Cases of Typhoid, Zika and Dengue are current throughout Fiji. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you go. Protect yourself against mosquito bites.

Fiji has experienced an outbreak of measles in the past. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you go.

Meningococcal disease

Meningococcal disease can often be fatal.

Get vaccinated before you travel.

If you notice a high fever, sensitivity to light or nausea, get medical treatment straight away.

• Meningococcal meningitis fact sheet

Kava, a traditional Pacific region drink, can be a health risk.

It can be dangerous if it reacts with:

• prescription medication, including antidepressants
• Kava fact sheet

Insect-borne illnesses

Fiji is prone to dengue and Zika virus outbreaks.

If you're pregnant, discuss your travel plans with your doctor and avoid affected areas.

Monitor local news for health updates.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Get medical help if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

• Infectious diseases

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• leptospirosis
• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself against illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Seafood toxins

Eating seafood can be a hazard.

Naturally occurring seafood toxins can make you ill, including:

• ciguatera fish poisoning
• scombroid (histamine fish poisoning)
• toxins in shellfish

Get urgent medical care if you suspect poisoning.

• Seafood poisoning

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical care standards in Fiji aren't as high as in Australia.

Hospitals and medical facilities can lack:

• extra services
• specialist equipment, including neonatal
• diagnostic equipment
• infection prevention control measures
• pharmaceuticals

Many regional hospitals provide only basic care.

Rescue and emergency services aren't as wide-ranging as they are in Australia.

In medical emergencies, hotels and resorts use public health facilities.

Before they admit patients, hospitals usually need:

• a payment guarantee
• confirmed medical insurance
• an up-front deposit

If you become seriously ill or have an accident, you may need to be evacuated to Australia. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. Ensure your travel insurance covers this.

• Information for travellers

Diving accidents

Fiji's only hyperbaric (decompression) chamber is at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva. 

You should dive well within safety limits.

Make sure your travel and health insurance covers you for diving-related costs.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Understand local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Court proceedings can go on for a long time. The Australian Government can't influence the time this takes.

The police and military have detention, arrest and search powers.

You can go to jail for possession of any quantity of illegal drugs. This includes if you are:

• Carrying or using drugs
• Partying safely with drugs

Drunk and disorderly

You can be arrested for being drunk and disorderly. You can be fined and detained if you cause damage to property or assault others, including first responders.

Alcohol on planes

It's illegal to be under the influence of alcohol while you're at an airport or on a plane.

If you're intoxicated, police may detain you as you arrive.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Fiji recognises dual nationality. Always travel on your Australian passport.

If you're a dual national and authorities arrest or detain you, ask to contact the Australian High Commission.

However, we may only be able to assist you in exceptional circumstances.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Outside of tourist areas, the dress code in Fiji is conservative. Dress respectfully when visiting village areas.

Same-sex relationships are legal, but some locals have conservative attitudes towards them. Open displays of affection could offend locals, particularly in rural areas.

Take care not to offend.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Tourist visas

If you’re travelling from certain countries , including Australia, you don't need a tourist visa for Fiji. If your stay is less than 4 months, authorities will issue a visa when you arrive. 

To get a visa on arrival, you must show proof of booked accommodation and a return ticket.

Before travelling to Fiji, check Tourism Fiji's  Frequently asked questions about travelling to Fiji  page.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Fiji for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Other visas

You may need a visa if you travel for other reasons. Contact the Fiji High Commission for more details.

• Fiji High Commission in Australia
• Fiji Department of Immigration

Strict customs rules apply for importing items, such as:

• sexually explicit material
• Fiji Revenue and Customs Service

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a  new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, let the Australian Government know as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service

If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTI travellers

The local currency is the Fiji Dollar (FJD). ATMs are common in urban areas and large resorts. Carry cash when you travel to villages or remote areas. Local banks and ATMs will charge fees for cash withdrawals.

Not all retail outlets will accept credit cards. Those that do will charge a fee between 2-5%.

You can easily exchange Australian dollars for FJD.

You must declare:

• amounts of more than FJD5,000 (or equivalent) when you arrive in Fiji
• amounts of more than FJD10,000 (or equivalent) when you leave

This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

Local travel

Severe weather  can affect tourist services, including roads and flights in and out of Fiji.

Local restrictions

Monitor the Fijian Government  Facebook page  for information and updates about restrictions and curfew hours.

More information

• Fiji Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport website

Tourism services or products

Transport and tour operators may not follow safety precautions. They may also not maintain their equipment to the standards you'd expect.

This includes operators of:

• adventure activities such as diving
• boats in rivers, coastal waters and between islands

Sometimes boats, rafts and kayaks don't have enough life jackets.

If you plan to do a tour or adventure activity:

• check that your insurance policy covers the activity
• before booking, check the operator's safety history and their safety equipment
• use only well-known and registered operators
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use the safety equipment, even if others don't

If you aren't given safety gear, or it's not in usable condition, use another provider.

Driving permit

Always carry your Australian driver's licence.

You can hire vehicles and drive in Fiji using your Australian driver's licence for the first 6 months after your arrival.  After that, you'll need to apply for a Fijian driver's licence at a local Land Transport Authority office.

If you want to ride a motorbike, check if your licence covers you for this. Driving without the correct licence can void your insurance.

If you want to drive a boat, check if your licence covers you for this.

• Fiji Land Transport Authority

Road travel

If you drive in Fiji, take care. Driving is most risky at night due to:

• poor street lighting
• stray animals
• poor road quality
• Driving or riding

Taxi quality varies.

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) licenses taxis.

Only use licensed taxis, which have yellow registration plates. Look out for the LT or LH registrations on the license plate. LT plates are metered taxis. LH taxis have fixed distance rates. 

Before you catch a taxi, make sure you have cash (Fiji dollars) for payments and that their meter is turned on. Be aware some taxis only have a seatbelt in the front passenger seat. You may need to plan ahead to book a taxi with front and rear seatbelts. 

Public transport

The LTA licenses some, but not all, minibuses. Unlicensed minibuses may not have insurance.

Only use those with yellow number plates that have been LTA-approved. 

• Transport and getting around safely

Before boarding any boat or ship, check the operator's credentials and safety equipment. 

Make sure your insurance policy covers you for sea travel.

Don't travel on a sea vessel that is over capacity.

• Travelling by boat

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Fiji's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian High Commission, Suva

37 Princes Road Tamavua Suva, Fiji Phone: (+679) 338 2211 Fax: (+679) 338 2065 Website: fiji.embassy.gov.au Facebook: Australia in Fiji Twitter: @AusHCFJ

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact the Australian High Commission, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Fiji?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

• United States
• United Kingdom

International travel is back: How to get travel insurance that covers COVID

Smartraveller says that if you're going overseas, travel insurance is as important as a passport. Here's how to get the least fun (but very important) part of your trip sorted.

It has been 704 days, but the day has finally come – Australia's international borders have reopened.

If you're one of the many Australians planning to travel soon , it's a pretty exciting time – so let's get the boring but necessary bit out of the way first: travel insurance.

According to the Australian government's travel advice website , "If you're going overseas, travel insurance is as important as a passport. If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel."

In addition to Smartraveller's stern messaging, lots of countries have also made travel insurance mandatory . Some even require you to have a minimum amount of medical cover.

Basically, the line is, if you plan to travel, get travel insurance.

The good news is that, in addition to protection for all the usual travel mishaps (like lost luggage), travel insurance can cover you for COVID-19-related expenses as well.

What COVID-19 expenses can it cover?

We found 23 travel insurers that offer some form of COVID cover . All can reimburse you for the following:

• COVID-19 medical expenses
• Trip rearrangement costs if you, a fellow traveller or your host gets COVID and it impacts your trip
• Expenses if you're unexpectedly forced into quarantine during your trip

Some can also cover you for:

• A prepaid activity that's booked in Australia or New Zealand is shut down
• Extra child care costs if you get COVID
• The accommodation you planned to stay at if it's closed due to a COVID-19 outbreak
• Added pet care costs if you're infected and can't return home

We've made a list of the policies that come with COVID-19 benefits below.

What COVID-19 expenses won't I be covered for?

There are a few other COVID-related situations where travel insurance won't help out. These include if:

• There's a government-imposed border closure or lockdown – for example, if this is announced while you're overseas, you won't be covered for rearranging your flights.
• You go into quarantine or self-isolation that you knew about in advance.
• You ignore a doctor's advice that you aren't well enough to travel.
• You contract COVID-19 on a multi-night cruise.
• You travel to a "Do Not Travel" country. You can find these on the Smartraveller website.

These are the main COVID-related exclusions but for a full list of what's not covered, it's worth reading the product disclosure statement (PDS) before you buy. You can usually find this at the bottom of the insurer's website.

"When it comes to COVID-19 cover, we strongly encourage our customers to carefully read their policy to really understand the benefits available to them, and the circumstances in which they could realistically make a claim," said Southern Cross Travel Insurance CEO Jo McCauley.

For example, travel insurance doesn't cover PCR test costs. This is because insurance only covers unforeseen events, not ones you should have been aware of in advance.

It has been a while. Remind me, what else does travel insurance cover?

Travel insurance can also reimburse you for:

• Medical expenses including repatriation
• Cancellation fees and lost deposits
• Rescheduling flights
• Luggage and personal belongings
• Rental vehicle excess insurance
• Legal fees and penalties – for example if you accidentally injure someone

A helpful tip if something does happen

Even with travel insurance, it's worth putting some extra funds aside just in case something happens. "Having access to extra funds is a safety net before you make your insurance claim," said Finder credit card expert Amy Bradney-George.

For example, if you or your partner catch COVID and need to quarantine, you'll need to pay upfront for the hotel and rearrange your flights . Your travel insurance generally reimburses you for those costs after you've returned home.

"It's worth setting some savings aside, or keeping a credit card with you just in case – whether it's a frequent flyer card to earn more points or a low rate card to keep costs down. Just remember you'll need to make monthly payments, and when your claim is approved, you can clear the balance," added Bradney-George.

Have you ticked travel insurance off your list yet? You can compare policies on our COVID travel insurance page here .

Ask a Question

Click here to cancel reply.

You are about to post a question on finder.com.au:

• Do not enter personal information (eg. surname, phone number, bank details) as your question will be made public
• finder.com.au is a financial comparison and information service, not a bank or product provider
• We cannot provide you with personal advice or recommendations
• Your answer might already be waiting – check previous questions below to see if yours has already been asked

Latest headlines

• The Bitcoin halving is here!
• Can travel insurance cover conflicts abroad?
• Flat sharing when flat broke: 2.5 million Aussies move in with family or friends in past year
• How high can Bitcoin actually go?
• Save up to $139 in a year with a 0% BT card | Dollar Saver tip #78

Get exclusive money-saving offers and guides

Straight to your inbox

How likely would you be to recommend finder to a friend or colleague?

Our goal is to create the best possible product, and your thoughts, ideas and suggestions play a major role in helping us identify opportunities to improve.

Important information about this website

Advertiser disclosure.

finder.com.au is one of Australia's leading comparison websites. We are committed to our readers and stands by our editorial principles

We try to take an open and transparent approach and provide a broad-based comparison service. However, you should be aware that while we are an independently owned service, our comparison service does not include all providers or all products available in the market.

Some product issuers may provide products or offer services through multiple brands, associated companies or different labeling arrangements. This can make it difficult for consumers to compare alternatives or identify the companies behind the products. However, we aim to provide information to enable consumers to understand these issues.

How we make money

We make money by featuring products on our site. Compensation received from the providers featured on our site can influence which products we write about as well as where and how products appear on our page, but the order or placement of these products does not influence our assessment or opinions of them, nor is it an endorsement or recommendation for them.

Products marked as 'Top Pick', 'Promoted' or 'Advertisement' are prominently displayed either as a result of a commercial advertising arrangement or to highlight a particular product, provider or feature. Finder may receive remuneration from the Provider if you click on the related link, purchase or enquire about the product. Finder's decision to show a 'promoted' product is neither a recommendation that the product is appropriate for you nor an indication that the product is the best in its category. We encourage you to use the tools and information we provide to compare your options.

Where our site links to particular products or displays 'Go to site' buttons, we may receive a commission, referral fee or payment when you click on those buttons or apply for a product. You can learn more about how we make money .

Sorting and Ranking Products

When products are grouped in a table or list, the order in which they are initially sorted may be influenced by a range of factors including price, fees and discounts; commercial partnerships; product features; and brand popularity. We provide tools so you can sort and filter these lists to highlight features that matter to you.

Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Please read our website terms of use and privacy policy for more information about our services and our approach to privacy.

Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World

Read our research on:

Full Topic List

Regions & Countries

• Publications
• Our Methods
• Short Reads
• Tools & Resources

Read Our Research On:

What we know about unauthorized immigrants living in the U.S.

The unauthorized immigrant population in the United States reached 10.5 million in 2021, according to new Pew Research Center estimates. That was a modest increase over 2019 but nearly identical to 2017.

The number of unauthorized immigrants living in the U.S. in 2021 remained below its peak of 12.2 million in 2007. It was about the same size as in 2004 and lower than every year from 2005 to 2015.

The new estimates do not reflect changes that have occurred since apprehensions and expulsions of migrants along the U.S.-Mexico border started increasing in March 2021 . Migrant encounters at the border have since reached historic highs .

Pew Research Center undertook this research to understand ongoing changes in the size and characteristics of the unauthorized immigrant population in the United States. The Center has published estimates of the U.S. unauthorized immigrant population for more than two decades. The estimates presented in this research are the Center’s latest, adding new and updated annual estimates for 2017 through 2021.

Center estimates of the unauthorized immigrant population use a “residual method.” It is similar to methods used by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Immigration Statistics and nongovernmental organizations, including the Center for Migration Studies and the Migration Policy Institute . Those organizations’ estimates are generally consistent with ours. Our estimates also align with official U.S. data sources, including birth records, school enrollment figures and tax data, as well as Mexican censuses and surveys.

Our “residual” method for estimating the nation’s unauthorized immigrant population includes these steps:

• Estimate the total number of immigrants living in the country in a particular year using data from U.S. censuses and government surveys such as the American Community Survey and the Current Population Survey.
• Estimate the number of immigrants living in the U.S. legally using official counts of immigrant and refugee admissions together with other demographic data (for example, death and out-migration rates).
• Subtract our estimate of lawful immigrants from our estimate of the total immigrant population . This provides an initial estimate of the unauthorized immigrant population .

Our final estimate of the U.S. unauthorized immigrant population, as well as estimates for lawful immigrants, includes an upward adjustment. We do this because censuses and surveys tend to miss some people . Undercounts for immigrants, especially unauthorized immigrants, tend to be higher than for other groups. (Our 1990 estimate comes from work by Robert Warren and John Robert Warren; details can be found here .)

The term “unauthorized immigrant” reflects standard and customary usage by many academic researchers and policy analysts. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Immigration Statistics also generally uses it. The term means the same thing as undocumented immigrants, illegal immigrants and illegal aliens.

For more details on how we produced our estimates, read the Methodology section of our November 2018 report on unauthorized immigrants.

The unauthorized immigrant population includes any immigrants not in the following groups:

• Immigrants admitted for lawful residence (i.e., green card admissions)
• People admitted formally as refugees
• People granted asylum
• Former unauthorized immigrants granted legal residence under the 1985 Immigration Reform and Control Act
• Immigrants admitted under any of categories 1-4 who have become naturalized U.S. citizens
• Individuals admitted as lawful temporary residents under specific visa categories

Read the Methodology section of our November 2018 report on unauthorized immigrants for more details.

Pew Research Center’s estimate of unauthorized immigrants includes more than 2 million immigrants who have temporary permission to be in the United States. (Some also have permission to work in the country.) These immigrants account for about 20% of our national estimate of 10.5 million unauthorized immigrants for 2021.

Although these immigrants have permission to be in the country, they could be subject to deportation if government policy changes. Other organizations and the federal government also include these immigrants in their estimates of the U.S. unauthorized immigrant population.

Immigrants can receive temporary permission to be in the U.S. through the following ways:

Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

In 2021, there were about 500,000 unauthorized immigrants with Temporary Protected Status . This status provides protection from removal or deportation to individuals who cannot safely return to their country because of civil unrest, violence or natural disaster.

Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) is a similar program that grants protection from removal. The number of immigrants with DED is much smaller than the number with TPS.

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals is a program that offers protection from deportation to individuals who were brought to the U.S. as children before June 15, 2007. As of the end of 2021, there were slightly more than 600,000 DACA beneficiaries , largely immigrants from Mexico.

Asylum applicants

Individuals who have applied for asylum but are awaiting a ruling are not legal residents yet but cannot be deported. There are two types of asylum claims, defensive and affirmative .

Defensive asylum applications are generally filed by individuals facing deportation or removal from the U.S. These are processed by the Department of Justice’s Executive Office for Immigration Review. At the end of 2021, there were almost 600,000 applications pending.

Affirmative asylum claims are made by individuals already in the U.S. who are not in the process of being deported or removed. These claims are handled by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). At the end of 2021, more than 400,000 applications for affirmative asylum were pending, some covering more than one applicant.

Here are key findings about how the U.S. unauthorized immigrant population changed from 2017 to 2021:

• The most common country of birth for unauthorized immigrants is Mexico. However, the population of unauthorized immigrants from Mexico dropped by 900,000 from 2017 to 2021 , to 4.1 million.
• There were increases in unauthorized immigrants from nearly every other region of the world – Central America, the Caribbean, South America, Asia, Europe and sub-Saharan Africa.
• Among U.S. states, only Florida and Washington saw increases to their unauthorized immigrant populations , while California and Nevada saw decreases. In all other states, unauthorized immigrant populations were unchanged.
• 4.6% of U.S. workers in 2021 were unauthorized immigrants , virtually identical to the share in 2017.

Trends in the U.S. immigrant population

The U.S. foreign-born population was 14.1% of the nation’s population in 2021. That was very slightly higher than in the last five years but below the record high of 14.8% in 1890.

As of 2021, the nation’s 10.5 million unauthorized immigrants represented about 3% of the total U.S. population and 22% of the foreign-born population. These shares were among the lowest since the 1990s.

Between 2007 and 2021, the unauthorized immigrant population decreased by 1.75 million, or 14%.

Meanwhile, the lawful immigrant population grew by more than 8 million, a 29% increase, and the number of naturalized U.S. citizens grew by 49%. In 2021, naturalized citizens accounted for about half (49%) of all immigrants in the country.

Where unauthorized immigrants come from

Unauthorized immigrants living in the U.S. come from many parts of the world, with Mexico being the most common origin country.

The origin countries for unauthorized immigrants have changed since the population peaked in 2007, before the Great Recession slowed immigration. Here are some highlights of those changes:

The number of unauthorized immigrants from Mexico living in the U.S. (4.1 million in 2021) was the lowest since the 1990s. Mexico accounted for 39% of the nation’s unauthorized immigrants in 2021, by far the smallest share on record .

The decrease in unauthorized immigrants from Mexico reflects several factors:

• A broader decline in migration from Mexico to the U.S.
• Mexican immigrants to the U.S. continuing to return to Mexico
• Expanded opportunities for lawful immigration from Mexico and other countries, especially for temporary agricultural workers.

The rest of the world

The total number of unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. from countries other than Mexico has grown rapidly. In 2021, this population was 6.4 million, up by 900,000 from 2017.

Almost every region in the world had a notable increase in the number of unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. from 2007 to 2021. The largest increases were from Central America (240,000) and South and East Asia (180,000).

After Mexico, the countries of origin with the largest unauthorized immigrant populations in the U.S. in 2021 were:

• El Salvador (800,000)
• India (725,000)
• Guatemala (700,000)
• Honduras (525,000)

India, Guatemala and Honduras all saw increases from 2017.

The Northern Triangle

Three Central American countries – El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala – together represented 2.0 million unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. in 2021, or almost 20% of the total. The unauthorized immigrant population from the Northern Triangle grew by about 250,000 from 2017 and about 700,000 from 2007.

Other origin countries

Venezuela was the country of birth for 190,000 U.S. unauthorized immigrants in 2021. This population saw particularly fast growth, from 130,000 in 2017 and 55,000 in 2007.

Among countries with the largest numbers of U.S. unauthorized immigrants, India, Brazil, Canada and former Soviet Union countries all experienced growth from 2017 to 2021.

Some origin countries with significant unauthorized immigrant populations showed no change, notably China (375,000) and the Dominican Republic (230,000).

Detailed table: Unauthorized immigrant population by region and selected country of birth (and margins of error), 1990-2021 (Excel)

U.S. states of residence of unauthorized immigrants

The unauthorized immigrant population in most U.S. states stayed steady from 2017 to 2021. However, four states saw significant changes:

• Florida (+80,000)
• Washington (+60,000)
• California (-150,000)
• Nevada (-25,000)

States with the most unauthorized immigrants

The six states with the largest unauthorized immigrant populations in 2021 were:

• California (1.9 million)
• Texas (1.6 million)
• Florida (900,000)
• New York (600,000)
• New Jersey (450,000)
• Illinois (400,000)

These states have consistently had the most unauthorized immigrants since 1990 and earlier .

At the same time, the unauthorized immigrant population has become less geographically concentrated. In 2021, these six states were home to 56% of the nation’s unauthorized immigrants, down from 80% in 1990.

Detailed table: Unauthorized immigrant population for states (and margins of error), 1990-2021 (Excel)

Detailed table: Unauthorized immigrants and characteristics for states, 2021 (Excel)

Unauthorized immigrants in the labor force

The share of unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. workforce was slightly less than 5% in 2021, compared with 3% of the total U.S. population.

Demographics help explain the difference: The unauthorized immigrant population includes relatively few children or elderly adults, groups that tend not to be in the labor force.

Overall, about 7.8 million unauthorized immigrants were in the U.S. labor force in 2021. That was up slightly from 2019 but smaller than every year from 2007 through 2015.

Detailed table: Unauthorized immigrants in the labor force for states, 2021 (Excel)

Here are some additional findings about unauthorized immigrants as a share of the workforce nationwide and in certain states:

• Since 2003, unauthorized immigrants have made up 4.4% to 5.4% of all U.S. workers, a relatively narrow range.
• Fewer than 1% of workers in Maine, Montana, Vermont and West Virginia in 2021 were unauthorized immigrants.
• Nevada (9%) and Texas (8%) had the highest shares of unauthorized immigrants in the workforce.
• Immigrant Populations
• Immigration Issues
• Unauthorized Immigration

Key facts about Asian Americans living in poverty

Latinos’ views on the migrant situation at the u.s.-mexico border, key facts about the nation’s 47.9 million black americans, key facts about the wealth of immigrant households during the covid-19 pandemic, 8 facts about recent latino immigrants to the u.s., most popular.

1615 L St. NW, Suite 800 Washington, DC 20036 USA (+1) 202-419-4300 | Main (+1) 202-857-8562 | Fax (+1) 202-419-4372 |  Media Inquiries

Research Topics

• Age & Generations
• Coronavirus (COVID-19)
• Economy & Work
• Family & Relationships
• Gender & LGBTQ
• Immigration & Migration
• International Affairs
• Internet & Technology
• Methodological Research
• News Habits & Media
• Non-U.S. Governments
• Other Topics
• Politics & Policy
• Race & Ethnicity
• Email Newsletters

ABOUT PEW RESEARCH CENTER  Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research. Pew Research Center does not take policy positions. It is a subsidiary of  The Pew Charitable Trusts .

Copyright 2024 Pew Research Center

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Settings

Reprints, Permissions & Use Policy